Musicerende putti 1836 - 1912

Isaac Weissenbruch created this pen drawing of 'Musiserende putti' meaning 'music-making cherubs' around the 19th century. Here, we see a cluster of cherubs, or putti, engaged in festive music-making, a motif that traces back to ancient Roman art and prominently features in Renaissance and Baroque art. The putto, often symbolizing divine love, reappears throughout art history, embodying innocence and playfulness. Think of the ubiquitous Cupid, armed with arrows of desire, a direct descendant of these cherubic figures. Note how the cherubs are actively involved with musical instruments and song sheets. Throughout history, music and the arts have been used to elevate the spirit and connect with the divine. The image of cherubs making music evokes a sense of harmony and joy that resonates deeply within our collective memory. Their presence in art reminds us of the eternal human quest for beauty and transcendence.